Isolation and characterization of banyan tree root filler for polymer composites in light-weight applications

Abstract

The applicability of bio fillers as reinforcement with polymers is promoted by cost- and environmentally-conscious concerns. Nowadays, a large range of reinforcements are employed for this purpose, including cellulosic fillers and natural fibres owing to the favorable mechanical behavior, minimal price, negligible tool wear, low density, and eco-friendliness etc. The main purpose of the investigation is to explore the possibilities of utilizing plant sources as reinforcing filler in polymeric matrices. In this study particulate fillers were obtained from banyan tree’s aerial roots and were subjected to various characterization such as physiochemical evaluation, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermal analysis (TGA), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). From the physiochemical analysis it was found that the banyan tree aerial root filler (BTAR) contained 40.13% of Cellulose, 15.22% of Hemicellulose, 15.31% of Lignin and 6.86% of Pectin. The density of the BTAR filler was found as 0.27 kg/cc whereas average particle size was 136.3 µm. The maximum inflection temperature referred to the maximum degradation of the BTAR filler was 295.7oC. The SEM analysis exposed the rough surface of filler, with micro-structured strands and pores. The rough surface and the pores could help in better bond ability of the matrix and reinforcement when combined. With these properties the BTAR filler could be a potential candidate as a strengthening material for polymers in different light weight applications.